On a beautiful spring day, I climbed to Kogarasu Shrine. Looking up at Kogarasu Mountain from my home, I see the same scenery I longed for as a child. As if guided by the gods, I passed through the torii gate at the foot of the mountain and stepped onto the shrine's steps. I wonder how many times I have climbed these steps. Below the steps lies the desolate land of the Kono family. I slowly ascend, step by step, chanting the Fudo Myoo's mantra of compassion and salvation. As I reach a bend halfway up the mountain, the steps leading straight up to the shrine grounds rise before me. Large cedar trees surround both sides, rustling in the spring breeze. In the space where the shrine grounds are located, warm sunlight falls. It glowed faintly in the distance. I loved this sight. When I reached the halfway point, a monument stood on the left. I took a rest there. Looking up, I could see that the stairs still stretched on. As I slowly climbed, listening to the birds chirping, it seemed I was near the shrine. On the right stood a large tree with a winding growth habit. I finally reached the shrine grounds. I was out of breath, panting. I never used to be like that as a child. A single maple tree stood in the grounds, displaying its fresh, vibrant green leaves in anticipation of spring. I gazed at the Kogarasu Shrine, bowed, and passed through the old stone torii gate. On both sides were stone pillars inscribed with the history of the shrine. Standing guardian lion-dogs, one A and one Un, stand beside the shrine. Beside the shrine is a huge rock, a sacred stone and a sacred rock formation. I put coins in the offering box, rang the bell, and bowed in the Shinto manner. After praying for a while, I approached the sacred stone and touched it with both hands. Its mossy, rough texture gave a strong sense of history. Surely my ancestors had done the same. I was more satisfied with feeling a connection to my ancestors than with making a wish. Behind the shrine stands a large tree with three branches, symbolizing the three legs of the Yatagarasu (three-legged crow). Following the path beyond, you arrive at a well that the priest says belongs to the Kono family. Is that it? The view of Kogarasu no Mori from here is extremely beautiful. Many trees grow thickly, their leaves swaying gently in the breeze, and when you look up, you can see a little bit of blue sky. There, you can forget about time and just stand there forever. The pleasant sunlight filtering through the trees and the birdsong heal you with the power of nature. I feel the presence of God more here than in front of the shrine. After standing there for a while, I receive God's power and return home. Even as I leave, I look back at the shrine many times, and leave Kogarasu with a prayerful heart. Even as I descend the stairs, I turn around one last time and look up at the warm space in the back. I can't help but whisper "God" in my heart. Glory to God.
